2020 Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Thursday, November 26, 2020

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Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Small Business Saturday comes to screens near you State offers tax holiday for some businesses, purchases

By Lisa Dunlap Roswell Daily Record Yes, Virginia, there will be a Small Business Saturday in Roswell.

Although state public health orders have closed the physical locations of non-essential small businesses until Nov. 30, MainStreet Roswell is working with local businesses to hold a virtual Small Business Saturday on Nov. 28.

Small Business Saturday has been held nationally each year since 2010 on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving. It is organized by American Express, with local community organizations or advisors named to coordinate local businesses.

The local group for Roswell is MainStreet Roswell, and its executive director, Kathy Lay, said that volunteers and businesses will bring the shopping to computer and phone screens.

“MainStreet Roswell will hold a Shop Small Saturday livestream shopping event on our Facebook page from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.,’” she wrote in an email. “We will be doing 30-minute livestreams in each business, starting at 10 a.m., where the business spokesperson will share a variety of items that viewers can purchase.”

Information is available on the “Shop Small Saturday” event site of MainStreet Roswell’s Facebook page, which lists participating businesses in the livestream, as well as contact information for local businesses that are selling by email, online or phone and can provide curbside or delivery services. The link is https://www.facebook.com/ events/2783885495260335.

The Roswell Chamber of Commerce Facebook page is also featuring videos and information

The shopping time around the Thanksgiving holiday is one of the most important for retailers and other businesses.

Lisa Dunlap Photo

Small Business Saturday — also sometimes called Shop Small — will take place via MainStreet Roswell’s Facebook page this year on Nov. 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on local businesses, and the New Mexico Economic Development Department has created an e-commerce site for New Mexico businesses, www.buynmlocal. com The state of New Mexico also pitches in to help shoppers and businesses on Nov. 28 by making that day the Small Business Saturday New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax Holiday. From 12:01 a.m. on Saturday until midnight, eligible businesses are exempt from sales taxes on qualified purchases and can pass on those savings to customers.

Detailed information is available on the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department website (www.tax.newmexico.gov).

Eligible businesses have to be based in New Mexico and have 10 or fewer employees on the payroll at any one time during the prior fiscal year. They also cannot be franchise operations.

Qualified purchases are tangible products or goods that sell for less than $500 per item.

They fall into one of the approved categories, which cover a range of merchandise from clothing to housing goods to electronic

devices.

The shopping time around the Thanksgiving holiday is one of the most important for retailers and other businesses. In 2019, about 110 million U.S. shoppers were part of the Small Business Saturday, spending an estimated $19.6 billion, according to a 2019 survey conducted by Teneo and commissioned by American Express and the National Federation of Independent Businesses.

According to a 2020 American Express Shop Small Impact study, 88% of survey respondents said they feel a commit-

Unique ways to support small businesses during COVID-19 Metro Creative Services Small businesses have faced unprecedented challenges in 2020. As the COVID-19 pandemic wore on throughout the year, small businesses continued to confront the economic fallout wrought by the virus.

According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, the number of active business owners in the United States plummeted by 22 percent in the early stages of the pandemic. Though many businesses managed to hang on as the pandemic continued through spring, summer and fall, such businesses need their communities to continue to help them stay afloat.

Consumers have not been immune to the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Unemployment figures skyrocketed across the globe, and in April retail sales dropped by 14.3% from the previous month according to statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau and Deloitte Insights. But consumer spending gradually increased in various industries over the summer of 2020. As consumers loosen their purse strings and begin spending more, they can embrace some unique ways to help small businesses in their community.

• Support struggling industries. Consumers may not typically give much thought to whether an industry is struggling before spending their money, but doing so can help small businesses that have had an especially difficult time during the pandemic. Data from the

USCB and Deloitte Services indicates that retail sales in certain industries continued to lag even as other industries recovered over the summer months.

Sales in the clothing and accessory and food and drink industries were still down nearly 20% in July 2020. Supporting locally owned businesses in these industries can infuse some much-needed cash into their operations.

lishers indicates that print revenues have grown by more than 1% in 2020 as many people in quarantine are choosing to spend that time with a good book.

When shopping for books via a site like Amazon, purchase books from independent sellers, who are often small book stores in local communities across the country.

• Think twice before buying from big box online retailers. Amazon has become such a go-to consumer resource that many shoppers forget they can comparison shop right on Amazon.com. And some consumers may be unaware that they can support small businesses when shopping via Amazon. Data from the Association of American Pub-

• Purchase gift cards. Pandemic-related restrictions have been lifted in many places, but that doesn’t necessarily mean consumers are confident enough to visit their favorite stores and restaurants in person.

Gift cards can be a great way to support local businesses even if you’re still hesitant to patronize them in person.

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ment to help their locally owned, smaller businesses this year.

And 46% of merchants and business owners said they are counting on holiday sales this year to help them survive into 2021.

Businesses interested in participating in the local Shop Small Saturday event can contact MainStreet Roswell at 575-9148017 or info@mainstreetroswell. org.

Stores or business owners who want to develop e-commerce or online stores on websites or social media pages to participate in Small Business Saturday can begin by reviewing the webinar and marketing kit developed by New Mexico MainStreet, the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department and the Small Business and Entrepreneur Advisor for the Office of the Governor. Those videos and materials are posted online at https://www.nmmainstreet.org/ revitalize-economies/small-business-saturday/.

Senior Writer Lisa Dunlap can be reached at 575-622-7710, ext.

351, or at reporter02@rdrnews. com.

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Barbara Beck General Manager

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Sandra Martinez Contributing Writers

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Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Thursday, November 26, 2020

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The Salvation Army adapts to pandemic challenges

By Christina Stock Roswell Daily Record Ever since The Salvation Army opened its doors in Roswell for a first Thanksgiving dinner, Nov. 29, 1906, the nonprofit organization bravely faced all challenges that arose, like two world wars, drought, flooding, fires and most of all, caring for the less fortunate citizens of Roswell.

This year, in the midst of a global pandemic, the need doubled to gather enough food for Christmas and toys for the annual Angel Tree.

Salvation Army Corps Roswell’s Capt. Niki Woollin worries if all the tags on the Angel Tree will be filled this year.

In an interview at its food bank, 207 E. Chisum St., Woollin said, “Applications are closed, we do have a waiting list if we have spaces available, but we are preparing and getting all of our tags ready to go out on the trees this year.” Woollin said they have almost doubled the number of families who have signed up this year, compared to last year.

Woollin said she knew that there would be much more needs, with many newly unemployed. She said that in October they provided 667 local food boxes, in January it was half of those.

Roswell’s location is the headquarters for a large territory that reaches beyond Chaves County.

“This is a contract we have through the states, and you have to be 60 and over and under a certain income.

We actually take the boxes to the communities — we go to Taos, over to Clayton and down to Lea County,” Woollin said.

Asked about the Angel

Salvation Army Roswell Corps in need of support and volunteers

Christina Stock Photo

Pictured in the center is Salvation Army volunteer Anthony Uranga on his second day filling the food boxes. To his right is volunteer Troy Myers who has been helping for more than two months. Soon the food bank will share its space with gifts for Roswell children whose parents signed up for the annual Angel Tree program.

Tree where parents sign up their children for toys and other wishes, Woollin said, “The last time we checked, we were just shy 140 families. We’re not sure how many angels we’ll have because we still have a waiting list. I believe last year around 300; this year, we’ll have more. It’s been crazy, the increase. Especially if we look at the food boxes almost doubling in this time.

The need is great, we will still be putting out angels for the trees for people to take and purchase toys. We are working heavily with volun-

teers to sort and organize those. I think people don’t realize that we need physical volunteers just as much as we need financial donations. They are both equally as important.”

With COVID-19 numbers rising and social distancing, The Salvation Army found a way to make the distribution safe for volunteers and the families. “It will be a drive-thru, so people don’t have to congregate in the same areas,” Woollin said.

“Distribution is going to be on the (Dec.) 19th, so we are requesting to have all

the tags back by the 11th so we have a week to sort and organize. Many people don’t notice this, but the tags are actually a specific child, so we have to organize them to their family groups and pack them together so that child gets that gift. It takes us about a week to sort through to make sure that everyone has what they need and that the families are complete.

“We are blessed to have a lot of volunteers, a huge shout out to Altrusa. Altrusa comes every year and helps us sort for an entire day,

which is incredible. But if people are looking for a way to give back this holiday season, we would love to get help with that. If people are financially able to buy toys, or make a donation to purchase toys, those are great.

Then during the holidays we have a lot of opportunities to volunteer. Anyone who wants to give back, they can volunteer and donate meals, they can help sort food. We have plenty of opportunities where we would love help from our community, absolutely,” Woollin said.

Woollin said that The Sal-

vation Army is diligently checking every application.

“We had a lot of families apply, but they have to show proof of their income and proof of their kids and if they are not able to prove that, then they are taken off of our list because we need to make sure that the children we are serving are actually in need. Every child we have is valid and certified. And the tags on the trees, some people thought that we just gave ideas, no, it’s actually what the parents put into

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Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

CASA sees greater need for Christmas cheer in 2020

By Juno Ogle Roswell Daily Record Christmas will likely be different for many families across Chaves County this year, but it could be especially tough for the children and families served

by Chaves County Court Appointed Special Advocates.

Since 1987, Chaves County CASA has worked to advocate for and assist children who are referred to social services because of child abuse or neglect or who are involved in other types of domestic violence cases in the Fifth Judicial District.

“Right now we’re probably helping about 400 children today. Over the course of the year, we serve thousands of people,” Carrie-Leigh Cloutier, chief executive officer, said. She estimated the organization assists 2,500 children a year as well as their family members.

Although the group’s office has been closed under public health orders, the staff of about 30 along with five courthouse facility dogs has continued to work under greater demand due to the pandemic.

“We have more referrals than ever and what we are seeing is more violence, not just domestic violence, but the child abuse. The children we are serving are experiencing higher levels of violence against them,” Cloutier said.

The group’s annual holiday Winter Wonderland fundraiser — an evening of food and drinks with live and silent auctions of decorated trees, wreaths and other decor — went fully online this year from Nov. 2 to 20 due to the public health orders.

“This community is incredibly generous but right now we’re really worried we won’t be able to make the amount of money we usually make to support

Christina Stock Photo

Pictured right is CASA CEO Carrie-Leigh Cloutier, in the midst of decorating Christmas trees for the recent CASA Winter Wonderland event, along with decorator Angelina Mendez. our services,” Cloutier said.

That makes donations all the more important this year, she said. Monetary donations will give the organization its greatest flexibility, she said. Those can be made through the organization’s website, https://casakids.org.

“But if people really want to buy things, we never have enough things for teenagers,” she said.

“This year we won’t be able to give a party for all the kids, but we are making sure we make toy deliveries to every single family

in need. We welcome all the donations we can get,” she said.

The annual toy drive also went online, with an Amazon wishlist featuring toys, games, electronics, blankets, makeup and hygiene items that people can purchase and have shipped directly to Chaves County CASA for the children. The link can be found on the organization’s Facebook page.

City/RISD reporter Juno Ogle can be reached at 575-622-7710, ext. 205, or reporter04@rdrnews.com.

Daily Record Photo

In this 2019 file photo, Zia, Chaves County CASA dog, sits by the fire at the CASA office at 500 N. Main St.

Help isolated loved ones this holiday season Metro Creative Services A phenomenon called “cabin fever” tends to set in around late autumn or in midwinter. Long hours of darkness coupled with cold, inclement weather often is a recipe for increased time spent indoors. For people who live alone, the effects of cabin fever might be more pronounced.

In addition to seasonal cabin fever, this year another factor comes into play: social distancing and voluntary quarantine as a result of the novel coronavirus COVID19. Even those who may venture outside to socialize, particularly around the holiday season, may

be hesitant or unable to do so to help prevent the spread of the virus. In these instances, friends and loved ones can mitigate feelings of isolation in various ways.

• Schedule video chats.

Video conferencing apps have become the communication vehicles of choice during the era of social distancing. Different applications and services continue to evolve and help people stay in touch.

Plan regular chats, either once or twice per week with isolated or vulnerable people. Try to organize a large group chat on the holiday itself so no one has to spend Christmas or Chanukah alone.

• Drop off supplies.

Even though supermarket shop-from-home and other delivery services have normalized somewhat since the start of the pandemic, treat individuals who may be isolated to some personalized attention. Put together care packages of supplies or holiday treats and deliver them in person so you can see the smiles that result from being able to visit with someone familiar.

• Send uplifting messages. Children or even adults can make personalized cards and mail them to loved ones at home or those who may be in long-term care facilities. Send new mailings every week or two so that

residents always have something to look forward to in the mail.

• Start a virtual club.

A book club or another shared interest can be the catalyst for more frequent communication. A club puts everyone on the same page and enables them to come together, via phone or video chat, for a discussion.

• Ask for help learning a new skill. Along the same vein as a virtual club, lessons on everything from woodworking to crochet to making favorite holiday recipes can be conducted online. Give an isolated individual daily purpose and distraction by engaging him or her with online lessons.

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Roswell Daily Record

Gift Guide

Thursday, November 26, 2020

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Animal experts: Let recipient choose their own pet

By Juno Ogle Roswell Daily Record When it comes to giving an adorable puppy or kitten as a Christmas present, leaders at local animal adoption organizations say it’s best to let the recipient pick out their pet rather than be surprised.

Krystal Smith, kennel manager for the Roswell Humane Society, said that is a requirement for adopting from their kennel.

“We encourage people to adopt, but we do not encourage people to give animals as gifts,” she said.

“If you know somebody that is looking to add to their family, we encourage that. But giving we do not allow because the person who signed the contract has to be the person who qualified for the adoption and who the animal is going to be living with and cared for,” she said.

The founder of a local rescue group advised against giving an animal as a gift during the holidays.

“In rescue, we don’t recommend that someone get someone else an animal for Christmas,” said Sammye Leflar, president and founder of Friends of Roswell Animals.

The group, known as FORA, works with Roswell Animal Control to pull about 25 dogs a week from Animal Control, Leflar said, places them in temporary foster homes and transports them to rescue group partners in Colorado for adoption.

“We’ve seen through the

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years so many times where people get their kids puppies for Christmas and then in January we get flooded with messages asking if we can take the puppy because they’re not six weeks old and cute anymore,” she said.

If a pet is to be given as a gift, she agreed it would be best for the recipient to be able to pick out their own.

An even better idea, she said, would be to “foster to adopt” — becoming a foster home for a dog or cat.

The foster family can later choose to adopt the animal, but if not, the animal has had a chance to become accustomed to a home before adoption.

Whether people decide to adopt or foster, under the current restrictions of the public health order getting to meet a pet before taking it home is a bit more difficult.

Normally, Smith said, the Humane Society would conduct adoption events monthly at Petco, during MainStreet Roswell’s First Fridays and at other businesses, but the pandemic has put a halt to those.

Both Smith and Leflar advised first looking online to see pets that might be of interest at the Humane Society or Roswell Animal Control, then making an appointment to see the animal.

Dogs and cats up for adoption at the Humane Society can be seen at its website, http://www.roswellhumane.org. Those in the city’s kennels can be seen at the Facebook page Roswell Urgent Animals at

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Animal Control.

Giving instead of gifting

For those wanting to help animals in Roswell, both organizations said the pandemic has greatly affected their fundraising, and monetary donations would be best.

“Right now, we are hurting so bad for money,” Smith said. “With the thrift store not being open, that is a huge cut to what comes in to us to help with the animals.”

Items such as cat litter, trash bags in 33- or 13-gallon sizes, bleach and dish soap are always in need, she said.

Monetary donations can be made through the Humane Society’s website, by mailing a check to the shelter at 703 E. McGaffey St., Roswell NM 88203 or by credit card by calling 575622-8950.

Monetary donations can be made to FORA through their website, https:// forarescue.org. Food donations or other items for foster animals can be made by contacting the group through its Facebook page, Leflar said.

The group is also in need of dog collars, she said.

“We are in dire need of collars for the dogs. When we pick them up at Animal Control and we put them into foster, the first thing we do is put a collar and one of our FORA tags with our number in case they were to get loose,” Leflar said.

City/RISD reporter Juno Ogle can be reached at 575-622-7710, ext. 205, or reporter04@rdrnews.com.

cord y Re l i a D well Ros

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Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Explore the many options for nontraditional gifts ated, with the caveat that gift-givers need to have a good understanding of and relationship with the recipient. For the most part, gifts such as these would not be able to be experienced until after the easing of pandemic restrictions.

A few ideas include a weekend stay at a New Mexico bed-and-breakfast, tickets to local attractions, season tickets to the symphony or theater, annual passes to U.S. national parks or behind-thescenes or private tours of sporting arenas or cultural spots.

By Lisa Dunlap Roswell Daily Record Most people appreciate receiving cash and gift cards from Santa, but maybe your sled wants to hold something a bit different this holiday season.

Here are some suggestions that could have special significance to the recipients, with perhaps a little extra component of good wrapped in.

Just remember to keep in mind both convenience and what the gift recipient would want at the present time. A gift might not be as appreciated if it would require a long car drive or the hiring of a babysitter or is something a couple with several children talked about wanting years before when they were newly married.

Think charitably

Maybe you want to honor a person with a donation to a cause or organization made in his or her name. You can always make gifts to local community groups. Roswell has many nonprofits, both locally grown and affiliated with national organizations. It also has foundations for charter schools, colleges and arts education. People also can make donations for the city zoo, sports clubs, museums and parks.

Another option is to buy goods or services that will give all or a portion of profits to a charitable cause. You can visit the websites or social media pages for established nonprofits to see what merchandise they are affiliated with, or you can search the web (or physical stores, once they reopen) for gift-giving sites and products associated with regional, national or international humanitarian efforts.

Senior Writer Lisa Dunlap can be reached at 575622-7710, ext. 351, or at reporter02@rdrnews.com.

Try a lesson or two

Lessons are gifts that can bring enjoyment at the moment and enrichment for a long time to come. The current coronavirus pandemic might mean that instruction could not occur for several months, but some lessons could begin or occur entirely online.

The list for lessons is practically endless: cooking, foreign languages, yoga, horseback riding, couples and solo dancing, flower arranging, photography, scuba, painting, and on and on.

Try searching local social media pages for Roswell businesses or teachers, or check the web for established online educational content curators that have workshops or series on everything from French literature to organic gardening.

Consider local authors and artists

Some gifts could give something unique to the

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the system, what the child needs,” Woollin said.

With the restrictions tightening until Nov. 30, Woollin said, “We will still have printed Angels at stores that are essential, like Walmart, and they will be able to be found online salarmy.us/RoswellAdoptAngel. To bring the gifts, they can be dropped off at our food bank location at 207 E. Chisum St., Bldg.

B, Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

While the food bank is operated as a drive-thru, if peo-

Submitted Photo

Books by local authors are sold by the Historical Society for Southeast New Mexico. The books or gift certificates can be ordered online. recipient, while also helping support a local writer, photographer, sculptor, craftsman, musician or apparel designer.

Several local authors whose books are sold online or at stores focus on Roswell or New Mexico history or people. A number of local musicians are selling their compositions or their own renditions of others’ songs. Some ple dropping off toys want to bring them straight to the door, they do not have to wait.”

History of The Salvation Army

First published in the Roswell Daily Record, Nov. 6, 1906 and Aug. 6, 1978: “In 1878, William Booth adopted the name ‘Salvation Army,’ 13 years after he left the Methodist ministry to preach in London slums in England. His book, ‘In Darkest England and the Way Out,” set a pattern for modern social work. The Army in America began in 1880 with seven young women guided by Commissioner George Scott

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face-covering makers and T-shirt vendors are creating UFO-themed masks or ones with the logos for the city of Roswell, the state of New Mexico and local schools. Painters and photographers have beautiful images of local scenes.

Sculptors and jewelry makers are creating pieces that evoke the southwestern heritage. Quilters, knitters and sewers often

create one-of-a-kind creations and, given enough time, can personalize the gifts.

Until physical stores reopen, social media sites are a good place to look for locally made arts and goods. Etsy, eBay, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook are popular sell ing sites. Local Facebook pages that promote Roswell artists include those

Railton, who combined preaching with social work in New York City. Many special services emerged, such as Women’s Social Work in 1884, the first food depot in 1890 and the first Salvation Army Missionary Hospital in 1901. During World War II, the (Salvation) Army operated 3,000 of its own units of service to the armed forces and led in the formation of the USO (United Service Organizations.)”

The Salvation Army came to the Territory of New Mexico in 1906, its chosen headquarters being Roswell, which was published in the Roswell Daily Record, Sept. 25, 1906,

front page, as Certificate of Comparison of the Territory of New Mexico, Office of the Secretary, J.W. Raynolds. It states that the resolution of its board of directors occurred on Aug. 23, 1906, with W.R. Woodward of Roswell named as authorized agent.

On Nov. 30, 1906, the Roswell Daily Record published on its front page the dedication ceremony that included its first Thanksgiving dinner. The Salvation Army had found a home in a “splendid new cement stone citadel, or hall, at the corner of Second Street and Pecos Avenue. … The Roswell City Band donated its services

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for MainStreet Roswell, the Roswell Chamber of Commerce, the Gallery and the Historical Society for Southeast New Mexico.

What about an adventure?

Some university marketing research about gift giving has indicated that experience-oriented gifts are the ones most remembered and appreciand gave an open air concert before the building. … Inside, Major Morton presided over the meeting. Elder Warde, of the Adventist church, opened with prayer. Rev. Henry F. Vermillion, of the Baptist church, was the first to speak, and told of his appreciation of the work of The Salvation Army.

“The Thanksgiving dinner at The Salvation Army Citadel was a great success. Over 400 people were fed and pleased with the dinner that was served.

Something over $100 was cleared by the Army.”

Today, The Salvation Army operates 7,546 centers in communities across

the United States, doing and fighting for the most good — its motto — which includes food distribution, disaster relief, rehabilitation centers, anti-human trafficking efforts and a wealth of children’s programs.

For more information, visit salarmy.us/RoswellAdoptAngel or call 575622-8700. You can also visit roswell.salvationarmy.org/roswell_corps Christina Stock may be contacted at 622-7710, ext.

309, or at vision@rdrnews. com.

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Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Thursday, November 26, 2020

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Vision editor’s holiday recipe: Christina’s stuffed pears

By Christina Stock Roswell Daily Record

An appetizer for the holidays that is remarkably easy to make, delicious and healthy: Serves 2 Ingredients: 2 firm pears 4 oz creamery fresh goat cheese (plain or flavored) 2 slices bacon 10 roasted and shelled pistachios 2 cups arugula greens 1/2 cup honey mustard salad dressing pepper Preparation: Fry the bacon slices until most of the fat is rendered and it has a deep golden color. Remove the bacon and put aside on a paper towel for later.

Wash the arugula and the pears; dry thoroughly.

Don’t use pears that are too soft, they still need to be crunchy. A good choice are Anjou pears.

Cut the pears in quarters and remove the cores.

Spread some goat cheese over each pear. Arrange the arugula on two plates and add on top of the stuffed pears — see picture.

Crumble the fried bacon and add it as a topping.

Drizzle the honey mustard salad dressing over the pears and add roughly chopped pistachios.

Finally, crack some pepper, preferably from a pepper mill, and serve.

A glass of fruity, not too

Christina Stock Photo

A festive, yet simple appetizer for Thanksgiving or Christmas: Pears stuffed with goat cheese topped with bacon and pistachios on a bed of arugula lettuce with a sweet and savory honey mustard salad dressing. sweet, sparkling wine fits best with it.

It is always fun to try something new, and the combination of sweet and salty, soft and crunchy has

the right balance in this recipe.

Variations: The bacon can be left out or replaced with Italian prosciutto. If you are a real cheese con-

noisseur, you may want to replace the mild goat cheese with fresh blue cheese. In this case, top it with slices of fresh red jalapeños and drizzle with

honey instead of the honey mustard dressing.

This recipe can be halved, doubled or tripled easily. If you serve it to children, it might be easier

if you chop everything and serve it as a mixed salad.

Christina Stock may be contacted at 622-7710, ext.

309, or at vision@rdrnews. com.

Tips for cooking (and saving) a smaller Thanksgiving feast

By Katie Workman The Associated Press If you’re planning a smaller Thanksgiving gathering this year because of social distancing, you don’t have to give up the turkey, stuffing, pie and other traditional fare.

Thanksgiving feasts have typically been tailored for a crowd: big birds, large casseroles, and so on. Your favorite recipes might serve 10 or more. But from turkey breasts to muffin-tin pies, there are ways to adapt the classics for a smaller crew, with less expense and potential for waste.

“Strangely, in the past, this time of year seemed challenging because we were trying to feed so many,” says Rebecca Miller Ffrench, a food writer and founder of the State Table, a culinary studio in Kingston, New York.

This year, “we are trying to feed fewer, and it may prove equally difficult, emotionally if not physically.”

Many families already branch out to include main dishes other than turkey for Thanksgiving, and this could be a good year to have fun with alternatives. But if tradition beckons, as it does for most, here are some tips.

Let’s start with:

The turkey

Most birds sold for Thanksgiving dinners in U.S. supermarkets have traditionally been in the 16-pound range, with some much larger. That size turkey will

serve 12 to 16 people. As a rule, when buying turkey, aim for about 1 pound per person when purchasing a whole bird; when cooking a smaller bird, especially if you want leftovers, aim for about 1 ½ pounds per person.

So a 10-pound turkey might be OK for a group of eight, feeding your gang generously. But if your group is much smaller, think about buying just a turkey breast, say, and a couple of drumsticks.

Halving recipes

Many recipes can be halved: roasted butternut squash, mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts are all good examples.

If you have a recipe for stuffing that calls for a 9-by-13-inch pan and feeds 10-12, you can cut it in half and bake it in a

The sides

First, you might serve fewer of them.

Miller Ffrench says one of her favorite things about Thanksgiving has been “all the large variety of dishes, which just seems ridiculously decadent” now.

Instead of a table overflowing with food this year, she will spotlight each family member’s favorite dish. And that’s all.

“Just one kind of cranberry, not two. Just squash, and not sweet potatoes as well. I hope we will take the time to relish each bite more, really focus on the individual flavors of each food, not the collective mounded plate,” she says.

“These past months have taught me to truly savor things more, figuratively and literally.”

9-inchsquare pan. Reduce the cooking time by about 25 percent: When it’s browned and crispy on top and hot throughout, it’s done.

Same thing for sweet potato casserole or green bean casserole.

Pies

Chef Maya-Camille Broussard, owner of Justice of the Pies bakery in Chicago, has some ideas for that most important category of Thanksgiving desserts: pies.

What if you’d like more than one kind of pie, but multiple 9-inch pies feel excessive?

Broussard suggests making galettes, mini pies in a muffin pan, or even whoopie pies in your favorite flavors. She also has small Le Creuset pots that she uses all the time to make individual pies.

“You may use a biscuit cutter to make small crust circles,” she says.

Or turn a coffee mug or a glass upside down, dip the lip in flour, and use it to cut out a circle of dough.

If you decide to make one of those smaller pies or muffin-tin pies, remember to reduce the cooking time. You might need to just rely on your eyes and nose for how long to bake them. Look for a browned crust, a slightly bubbling interior (if it’s a fruit pie), or a mostly firm filling (if it’s a pumpkin custard

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pie, for instance).

Broussard also believes in freezing pies.

“Pies usually have a high moisture retention and they freeze incredibly well,” she says. “Pies are typically good in the fridge for one week and in the freezer for one to two months.”

Fruit pies freeze especially well, she suggests. Thaw one on the countertop and then “pop it back in the oven to warm it up and revive the crust.”

Leftovers

Finding creative ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers has always been an issue, this year even more so.

Leftover squash can become a pureed soup; turkey a pot pie and a pozole soup. Mashed potatoes might top a shepherd’s pie later in the week. And everyone looks forward to a day-after-Thanksgiving turkey sandwich, maybe topped with extra cranberry sauce and a drizzle of gravy.

Miller Ffrench suggests freezing gravy flat in freezer bags and using it alongside a grilled chicken breast, or to enhance a pot pie base.

Another smart tip: “Slices of pumpkin pie are a delicious addition to any smoothie … crust and all.”

Above all, says Miller Ffrench, remember that it’s not the size of the feast or the crowd that matters most: “Big or small, and most importantly, we’ll be counting our blessings.”

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Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Forget sad Thanksgiving: early Christmas fever takes over

By Leanne Italie The Associated Press NEW YORK (AP) — Lindsey Catarino is the talk of her neighborhood. She put up her Christmas tree, lights and all, in mid-September. By Oct. 1, her mantel was decorated.

Since, she has added more trees and decorations in just about every room of her Connecticut condo.

The goal for the 42-yearold Catarino, like other newly minted early birds, is to bring on the warmth and comfort of Christmas by beating back “an otherwise insane world.”

As some holiday tree sellers fear they’ll sell out

by Thanksgiving and parcel shipping companies worry about November gridlock, a growing number of people on a quest for joy have bucked tradition and gone full-on Christmas weeks earlier than they normally would.

“It has definitely overtaken me, and very early,” said Catarino, who lives in West Hartford. “I enjoy being home in a different way. It just gives me a chance to be busy on something that’s happy. I wanted my house to bring me that peace, and we just want to tune out. The election was the final straw.”

She’s definitely not alone.

Brandon Stephens, president of the professional holiday decorating company Christmas Decor, said early business is up 15% to 20% compared to the same period last year.

Orders came in as early as April — for April, he said.

The company’s franchises serviced more than 43,000 homes and businesses last year around the country and expect a jump to about 52,000 this year. Most of the early activity is residential.

“We knew that it was kind of an emotional response. People were looking for hope. People were looking for something to feel good about while cooped up in their houses,” he said. “Lots of folks are not traveling for the holiday so they are celebrating at home.”

Jacob Pinkham, a new father in Huntington Beach, California, said he and his wife had a hardfast no-Christmas-’til-December rule, until this year amid pandemic fatigue, election turmoil and the economic devastation hitting millions around the world.

The couple got to thinking about their Christmas trip to Cork, Ireland, a few years back and the all-Christmas radio station they discovered there, Christmas FM. They’ve been listening for weeks.

“Our daughter was born just before COVID hit so having to deal with being a new parent, a new family and with a highly contagious virus circulating, we decided we needed some

AP Photo

This combination photo shows views of the Christmas-decorated exterior of Danielle Martin’s home in Manteno, Ill. Martin is a big Christmas person but usually waits to decorate until the day after Thanksgiving. This year she got busy on Nov. 1 with a candy cane themed front porch.

Christmas cheer earlier than usual,” he said. “We also have two dogs. I don’t know how they feel about the Christmas music but they’re not barking, so that’s a positive sign.”

Pinkham’s favorite holiday tune? If he had to choose, it would be Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song.”

In Louisville, Kentucky, 29-year-old Mindy Jones has about 1,100 square feet and an additional 400-square-foot basement in a new home she moved into about a month ago with her husband, their 3-year-old daughter and the family dog.

In the past, they’d hold the holiday to two Christmas trees, including a 7-footer adorned with all their special ornaments standing post in the living room. This year, the tree count is five. The first two went up Nov. 11. There may be more by the time Christmas rolls around.

Usually, Jones waits until the Saturday after Thanksgiving to jump start the holiday.

“I wanted to spread the ‘holly jolly’ feeling a little longer than just December,” she said. “With everything going on this year, if it brings a little more joy and excitement to what’s been a really tough year, why not?”

The drive in Jones and many others to push the holiday cheer is in part the desire to connect with rituals, especially now when so many traditions and so much holiday fun at work and among extended family has been upended.

Erica Keswin, a business consultant with a new

book out in January, “Rituals Roadmap,” describes the benefits with three Ps. “We feel psychological safety and a sense of purpose, which leads to increased performance,” she explained, noting that the power of our senses — smell, taste, touch etc. — helps lead the way.

That might go a long way toward explaining Lisa Torelli-Sauer’s cookie stash in Aschaffenburg, Germany, where the American lives with her husband and two boys, 9 and 7.

“We’re experiencing partial lockdowns and will likely have limits on our ability to celebrate the holidays with family,” she said. “I’ve found early and intense solace in one thing: Christmas cookies.”

She’s buying, not baking, the stash of gingerbread, cinnamon stars and spiced coconut cookies she has kept on hand since the beginning of November.

“I haven’t left the grocery store without picking up multiple packs of cookies,” Torelli-Sauer said. “After a long and stressful day, it’s deeply satisfying to settle down with a cup of coffee and the perfect assortment of Christmas sweets.”

Much of the early Christmas fervor has to do with pared-down Thanksgiving due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“I think the rush is because Thanksgiving is normally about gathering, which more than likely won’t happen for a lot of people this year,” said Jennifer Rizzo, an artist and interior designer who wrote a book titled “Creatively Christmas.”

“Much of the enjoyment

of the holidays is really as much about the preparation as the day itself, and people are digging into that aspect of Christmas,” she said.

Danielle Martin, 42, in Manteno, Illinois, is a big Christmas person. But usually she waits to decorate until the day after Thanksgiving. This year she got busy on Nov. 1, a candy cane themed front porch included.

“It’s probably earlier than most but we love it,” she said. “It definitely made a change in our moods,” she said of herself, her husband and her three kids, ages 10, 7 and 5. “The world is so difficult right now for everybody, so we were ready.”

Ma rt in p u t u p a h o t cocoa bar, their stockings on the fireplace mantel, a large framed sheet of music for the song “Jingle Bells” and a 9-foot tree, among other decorations.

And that’s just the living room.

Each of her kids will soon have their own tree in their rooms. When she’s done, Martin said there will be seven trees in all.

Early Christmas is also on the minds of folks in and around Grapevine, Texas, near Dallas. Also, wine. Tickets went on sale Nov. 10 for the city’s adults-only Christmas Wine Train excursions next month in decorated vintage rail cars — wine and a visit from Santa included.

“We sold out in six minutes,” said Ana Chavez, a spokeswoman for the Grapevine Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. “There’s Christmas crazy in Texas!”

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Steps for hanging holiday lights outdoors Metro Creative Services It begins to look a lot like Christmas when twinkling lights brighten up homes inside and out. Few things liven up the season more than holiday decorations, particularly clear and colored lights.

Prior to taking out the lights, ladder and thermos of coffee to get you through the job, it’s important to note that there are right and wrong ways to hang holiday lights.

• Sketch out your plan.

Start by taking a few photos of your home from various vantage points.

Print out the photos on regular paper so that you can draw your lighting arrangement and decoration placement right on the photos to see how things will look.

• Measure the area.

Use a measuring tape to roughly measure the width and height of eaves or other areas of the home where you plan to hang light strands. Calculate how much overall footage you will need so you can purchase all of the lights in one shopping trip.

• Test the lights first.

Plug in the lights to be sure all strands are operational.

• Begin where the lights will be plugged in. Start where the lights will be plugged in and then work your way around the house.

• Add to shrubs and trees. Lights also can adorn shrubs and trees.

Lowes Home Improvement says a good rule of thumb is 100 lights for every 1 1/2-feet of tree or shrub to cover. A 6-foot evergreen needs at least 400 lights for a basic level of lighting.

• Exercise extreme caution. Accidents can happen when stringing lights.

While many professionals use harnesses, homeowners are not always so cautious. Utilize a spotter to hold the ladder and make sure things are safe.

Never set foot on a wet or icy roof. Do not attempt to string lights in inclement weather.

• Know the wattage.

Each outlet can generally hold about 17 amps or 1,870 watts if the lights are not sharing a circuit with another outlet, says Parrish. Plan accordingly to ensure you have enough power to handle your lights.

• Use plastic clips. Plastic light clips hang strands along eaves and gables.

They’re specially designed for hanging lights over the gutters. Some slip under the edges of roof shingles.

Lights can be hung without staples or nails, which can damage exterior surfaces. Plastic zip-ties or deck clips also can attach lights along a handrail.

• Use only outdoor extension cords. Be sure the extension cords you use are designed specifically for outdoor use.

• Use a timer. Timers can make sure the lights turn on and off even if homeowners forget.

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Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Host virtual holiday celebrations Metro Creative Services The 2020 holiday season figures to be vastly different than seasons past. The novel coronavirus COVID-19 has transformed daily life in many ways. The public has become accustomed to wearing masks while shopping, limiting the number of people in public venues and keeping their distance from friends and loved ones.

Many events have been reimagined as virtual celebrations because of social distancing protocols. For those with large families or people with inherent risk factors that make them more susceptible to illness, sharing the holidays over video conferencing apps may be the safest way to go in 2020.

The following tips can help holiday hosts make the most of a virtual holiday experience.

Pick a bright, festive spot

Set up your tablet, smartphone or computer in a bright area with a festive backdrop. You’ll want others who join the virtual hangout to be able to see you clearly. A Christmas tree or a decorated fireplace in the background can set the scene.

Choose the right conferencing app

Certain programs may work better than others depending on your needs.

For example, if everyone has the same operating system platform (iOS or Android), you may be able to use an app inherent to that system, which won’t require a separate download or login.

Apps also may be chosen depending on how many people can be invited in, as some set limits.

Do your homework and conduct a test run prior to the holidays.

Keep props nearby

If the goal is to open gifts virtually, be sure to have everyone gathered and gifts nearby so no one is scrambling in and out of view.

Position the camera at eye level

Try to set up the camera so you’re not looking up or down. Practice looking straight into the camera instead of at yourself in the minimized window or even others on the screen. This way you’ll appear engaged.

Use mute when not speaking

Muting yourself (and

encouraging others to do the same) when you are not speaking will limit the amount of background noise. As the host, serve as the moderator and encourage everyone to speak one at a time. Choose a visual cue to signal when someone has the floor to speak, such as raising a hand or even showing a festive picture.

Tune into virtual worship

While some places of worship have reopened to some capacity, others may still be offering hybrid services. If your place of worship offers services via YouTube or another video platform, gather around and watch together and participate just as if you were there in person. Better yet, share the link with other family and friends so they can tune in as well.

Share dinner ‘together’

Set up your camera source so it captures the holiday table. All parties gathering virtually can then sit down to the holiday meal as one and enjoy one of the season’s more endearing traditions.

Thursday, November 26, 2020

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Great gifts for book lovers Metro Creative Services Books are very popular gifts come the holiday season. Genres that run the gamut from fantasy to nonfiction ensure there’s a book out there for everyone. But finding the right gift for a book-loving loved one may not be as easy as it seems.

Avid readers may have personal book collections that rival local libraries, so it can be difficult to find something they haven’t already read. In addition, asking them what’s on their wish list of books can remove the element of surprise from holiday gift-giving. Fortunately, shoppers can still light up their favorite book lovers’ eyes this holiday season, even if they’re not giving them a recent bestseller.

• Bookshelf: E-readers may provide instant access to millions of books, but many avid readers still prefer physical books. Bookshelves can make the perfect gift for book lovers who take great pride in their home libraries. Bookshelves come in all shapes, sizes and styles, from ladder bookcases to floating bookshelves to built-ins.

A basic understanding of your loved one’s home

decor preferences is all you need to find a bookshelf that can blend in seamlessly in his or her reading room.

• Audio book subscription: Audio book subscription services have grown in popularity in recent years. These services make it possible for busy readers to devour their favorite books while commuting to and from work or running daily errands in the car. Amazon’s Audible membership provides readers with a host of benefits, including discounts on audiobook purchases, monthly credits toward anything available through the service and even complimentary digital newspaper subscriptions.

• Bookends: Book lovers tend to put a lot of effort into designing their reading rooms. Decorative bookends, which can

have a humorous angle or tie into a theme that correlates to readers’ favorite literary genre (i.e., boat bookends for lovers of maritime histories), can make for great, unique gifts.

• Embosser: Embossers allow readers to put their personal stamps on every book in their collections. That not only adds a unique touch to readers’ personal libraries, but also may increase the chances that the books they loan out to friends and family members are ultimately returned. After all, who wouldn’t return a book to its original owner when that book has been personally embossed?

Many items make the perfect gift for book lovers, even if shoppers are unsure about buying their loved ones actual books.

Seeing the silver lining of scaling back on holiday festivities

Metro Creative Services

To say the novel coronavirus COVID-19 changed life would be an understatement. Due to COVID19, the way people interact with one another has changed dramatically over the last several months.

Despite this, the public has proven very resilient and adaptive, often finding a silver lining while confront-

ing challenges that might once have seemed insurmountable.

The holidays are one aspect of life that have been modified as people continue to navigate the new normal. It’s easy to lament the fact that extended family may not be able to travel or celebrate the holidays together. However, there is something to be said for small

celebrations. The following are some of the positive aspects of scaling back holiday festivities.

• More personal: Certainly it can be great to see distant cousins or old college roommates for the holidays. But the more people who you see each holiday season, the less personal interaction you get. When the holidays are scaled back, dinner becomes more

intimate and everyone can exchange gifts and see their loved ones’ reactions.

• Reduced expenses: Putting out an extensive holiday spread and entertaining 10 or more people can be expensive. Small gatherings are less expensive because there’s fewer mouths to feed.

• Ability to splurge: On the other side of the financial coin, having fewer

people for the holidays means one can indulge on items that may not be possible when hosting a crowd. Therefore, if chicken was normally on the menu, it could be possible to upgrade to a roast or something indulgent like lobster and other seafood.

In addition, a small holiday celebration may free up the budget to spend more on gifts.

• Special touch: When there are only a few people celebrating, hosts can go the extra mile to give celebrations a special touch.

Create a special holiday dessert even if the recipe is time-consuming. In addition, immediate family can pile into the car to tour the neighborhood decorations, something that may not be as manageable with a motorcade of relatives.

C10 Thursday, November 26, 2020

Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Gifts that can make social distancing easier Metro Creative Services

Here comes Santa Claus — with face masks and plexiglass

By Joseph Pisani Ap Retail Writer NEW YORK (AP) — Santa Claus is coming to the mall — just don’t try to sit on his lap.

Despite the pandemic — and the fact that Santa’s age and weight put him at high risk for severe illness from the coronavirus — mall owners are going ahead with plans to bring him back this year.

But they are doing all they can to keep the jolly old man safe, including banning kids from sitting on his knee, no matter if they’ve been naughty or nice.

Kids will instead tell Santa what they want for Christmas from six feet away, and sometimes from behind a sheet of plexiglass. Santa and his visitors may need to wear a face mask, even while posing for photos. And some malls will put faux gift boxes and other decorations in front of Saint Nick to block kids from charging toward him.

Other safety measures include online reservations to cut down on lines, workers wiping down holiday-decorated sets, and hand sanitizer aplenty.

Santa’s hours are also getting cut to give him a break from crowds.

Macy’s canceled its in-person visits this year, saying it couldn’t provide a safe environment for the more than 250,000 people that show up to see Kriss Kringle at its New York flagship store.

But malls, which have struggled to attract shop-

pers for years, are not willing to kill a holiday tradition that is one of their biggest ways to lure people during the all-important holiday shopping season.

“You have to give them a reason to come or they’ll stay home and shop online,” says Michael Brown, who oversees the retail team at consulting firm Kearney.

More than 10 million U.S. households visited Santa in a mall or store last year, according to GlobalData Retail’s managing director Neil Saunders. Nearly 73% of them also spent money at nearby restaurants or stores, he says.

“Santa is the magnet that attracts people to malls and without that attraction, malls will struggle more to generate foot traffic,” says Saunders.

Mall operator CBL, which filed for bankruptcy earlier this month, plans to bring Santa to nearly 60 malls at the end of November, about three weeks later than last year. The company decided against a plexiglass barrier because it didn’t look right in photos. But Santa will be socially distanced and wear a face mask. He may also put on a plastic shield to protect his face.

“We’re doing everything possible so that he stays healthy,” says Mary Lynn Morse, CBL’s marketing vice president.

Mall owner Brookfield started planning in-person Santa visits at 130 of its shopping centers in April, opting for sleighs and gift boxes where visitors can sit away from Santa. At one of its malls, The SoNo Collec-

tion in Norwalk, Connecticut, a round piece of plexiglass will be placed in front of Santa so it looks like he’s inside a snow globe.

But the precautions may not be enough to convince some shoppers.

“It just seems like such a bad idea, just being in a mall,” says Emma Wallace of Alexandria, Virginia, who decided against taking her toddler to his first visit with Santa this year.

“We’re just so sad,” she says. “We were really looking forward to that picture that seems like every parent has, where they’re sort of terrified or just bemused by the whole Santa thing.”

Malls realize many people may stay home. Cherry Hill Programs, which will bring Santa to more than 700 malls, is also offering Zoom calls with him for the first time in its 60-year history.

And Brookfield teamed up with virtual Santa company JingleRing, giving people a way to chat with Santa from home.

Ed Taylor, a Santa who typically spends several months in Los Angeles filming TV spots and making mall appearances, will stay at home in southern Oregon this year.

“When you think about the high risk profile for COVID, you’re kind of drawing a picture of Santa,” Taylor says.

He’ll be doing video calls with families and has been holding online classes to get other Santas camera-ready. Meeting kids virtually means getting them to speak up more, since the calls usually run seven minutes — about twice as long as mall visits, where

the main objective is to snap a good picture.

Going online gives Santa a chance to experiment with his attire. Some may ditch the formal red suit for vests and rolled up sleeves, since Santa is presumably calling from the North Pole and running a toy workshop full of busy elves.

“Up at home, we’re working,” says Taylor. “We have presents to make. We’ve got reindeer to feed.”

But there’s some parts of Santa’s look that can’t change. JingleRing, which has signed up more than 400 Santas, held online training sessions on how to use at-home bleaching kits to transform gray hair and beards into Santa’s snow white hue. They were also advised to buy teeth whitening strips.

“Santa can’t have smoker’s teeth,” says Walt Geer, who co-founded JingleRing this year after realizing people may need a new way to meet Santa.

Stephanie Soares is sticking to the old way. She brought her daughter, Gia, to a Bass Pro Shops store last week in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to take a picture with Santa, who wore a clear plastic face shield and sat behind a glare-free acrylic barrier that sometimes made it hard to hear what the kids were saying.

A worker sprayed down the barrier after each visit.

“Even though we’re in a pandemic, it’s important that the kids are still able to be kids and still keep up with the regular traditions,” says Soares.

Exchanging gifts with loved ones is a holiday season tradition. That tradition figures to continue this year, though families will almost certainly have to adjust the ways they exchange gifts.

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in the winter of 2019-20 changed how people across the globe live their lives. Social distancing guidelines encouraged people to limit get-togethers, particularly indoor gatherings. Experts anticipate restrictions on indoor gatherings will continue in the early part of the winter of 2020-21, which could force families to rethink how they get together during the holiday season.

Families also may want to think outside the box when buying gifts for their loved ones, targeting items that can make social distancing easier.

The following gift ideas can make a socially distant holiday season that much more special for a loved one.

Streaming subscription

Movie theaters have been closed for months in many areas. But movie lovers still want to see their favorite flicks, so a streaming subscription to a service such as Netflix or Amazon Prime can be just what they need to stay entertained while social distancing this winter. For fans of classic films, including indie movies, foreign films and big studio productions, a subscription to the Criterion Channel might make the perfect gift. Curated by the Cri-

terion Collection, this streaming service provides access to a library of more than 1,000 classic and contemporary films, making it an ideal gift for the family film buff.

Cooking classes

Many people have spent the last several months honing their culinary skills. Gift givers can help them take those skills to the next level by enrolling them in online cooking classes. The options are endless and some even include access to legendary celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay. Many online cooking classes feature monthly memberships or single classes, making them ideal for loved ones of all skill and interest levels.

Technology

Technology has helped many people stay connected with friends and family while social distancing, so a new tablet, laptop or desktop computer can be just what people need to fully engage in family Zoom sessions or weekly virtual happy hours with coworkers and friends.

If a new tablet or laptop stretches your budget, consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones, which can make it easier to concentrate while working remotely in a crowded house.

Crafting kit

Hobbyists may have had their passions for crafting reinvigorated while social distancing, making a crafting kit an ideal gift to help them fill their downtime. Beginner’s kits also can make an ideal gift for novices looking for an engaging, time-consuming hobby.

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Gift Guide

Roswell Daily Record

Safety tips on giving kids electric toys Metro Creative Services Youngsters’ eyes light up each holiday season at the sight of toys.

Gift-giving during the holiday season is practiced by people of various faiths and backgrounds, and the joy of giving is only increased when witnessing the excited children unwrap gifts.

Though no gift giver wants to imagine children being hurt while playing with their toys, it’s important that adults recognize the dangers posed by certain toys.

Regulations mandating the safe production of electric toys have been in place for decades, but the risk of injury remains. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recognizes that threat and offers the following tips to consumers who intend to give children electric toys this holiday season.

• Heed the age recommendations. The CPSC notes that children should never be given toys, including electric toys, that are made for older kids. The idea that kids “will grow into it” may entice some consumers to ignore age recommendations, but that only puts youngsters at risk. Age recommendations are the minimum

age children should be before they play with a toy.

• Consider kids’ m a t u r i t y l e v e l s . C h i ldren mature at different paces, so even kids who meet or exceed the minimum age listed on the package may not necessarily be capable of safely playing with the electric toy. To determine if a child is mature enough for a given toy, consumers can consult with the child’s parents or, if buying for their own children, pay particular attention to how the child plays with age-appropriate toys he or she already has. If the child tends to gravitate toward toys designed for younger

children, he or she might not yet be ready for electric toys designed for his or her age.

• Carefully and clearly explain the toy to children. Before allowing a child to play with a new electric toy, parents should carefully read the instructions and then read them aloud to their children. Play with the child when he or she uses the toy until you are confident the youngster understands the toy and how to operate it safely.

The CPSC recommends parents always supervise children when they’re using electric toys and make sure that toys that must be plugged into the wall fit snugly into

the outlets. Prevent electrical shock by ensuring prongs are never exposed.

• Store toys safely. Safe storage also is vital to prevent electric toy-related injuries. Store electric toys in dry areas that are not accessible to children.

• Inspect toys regularly. Routine inspections of electric toys can alert parents to broken parts, frayed cords and/or damage to enclosures of wiring and other protected components. If parts like batteries or bulbs need to be replaced, make sure children know that only adults are allowed to replace them.

Thursday, November 26, 2020

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Study suggests video games can help mental health LONDON (AP) — Time spent playing video games can be good for mental health, according to a new study by researchers at Oxford University.

The finding comes as video game sales this year have boomed as more people are stuck at home because of the pandemic and many countries have once again imposed limits on public life.

The paper released Nov. 16 is based on survey responses from people who played two games, Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville and Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

In a first, the study used data provided by the game makers, Electronic Arts and Nintendo of America, on how much time the respondents spent playing, unlike previous research that relied on imprecise estimates from the players.

The researchers at the Oxford Internet Institute said they found the actual amount of time spent playing was a small but significant positive factor in people’s well-being.

The paper, which hasn’t been peer reviewed, said the level of enjoyment that players get from a game could be a more important factor for their well-being than mere playing time.

The results could cast doubt on long-held assumptions that gaming causes aggression or addiction, though the authors acknowledge they are only a snapshot.

“Our findings show video games aren’t necessarily bad for your health; there are other psychological factors which have a significant effect on a person’s well-being,” said Andrew Przybylski, the institute’s director of research. “In fact, play can be an activity that relates positively to people’s mental health — and regulating video games could withhold those benefits from players.”

Some 2,756 players of Animal Crossing: New Horizons in the U.S., U.K. and Canada were surveyed along with 518 players of Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville. They were asked to fill out a survey on their experiences that was matched up against playing time logged by the game companies.

Lack of transparency from game makers has long been an issue for scientists hoping to better understand player behaviors and the authors said previous research used to propose advice for parents and policymakers was done without a robust evidence base.

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Support a small business through volunteerism Metro Creative Services The novel coronavirus COVID-19 that began sweeping across the globe in late 2019 has had a major impact on all components of daily life. From school closures to virtually shared holidays to lost revenue, the pandemic has made 2020 a challenging year.

The pandemic has forced many business owners to rethink their longstanding business practices. Verizon Business released findings from its Small Business Recovery Survey in September 2020 that revealed the impact small business owners and decision makers feel the pandemic has had on their businesses.

Fifty-five percent of small businesses surveyed have concerns about staying afloat financially with regulations that limit business capacity. In addition, 67 percent of small businesses feel their financial security has been negatively affected, but 72 percent are optimistic they will be able to stay open at least six months or more.

One way small businesses may be able to survive and thrive is with the help of volunteers.

The following are ways volunteers can help small businesses in an uncertain time.

• Volunteer as a mentor. Business coaches lend their time and expertise to help businesses establish and achieve their goals. Coaches can work with small business owners to discuss the challenges they face and give specialized guidance

Donate safely during COVID to help grow their businesses. Coaches typically work for a fee, but volunteers can offer assistance at no charge to help businesses get back on solid footing.

• Strengthen a web presence. A strong internet presence is essen tial for small businesses.

BrightLocal, a marketing firm that connects with local businesses, says 90 percent of consumers used the internet to find a local business in the last year. Those knowledgeable in search engine optimization, website building, online marketing, or even social media maintenance can volunteer their services with a local business to help garner online attention that can bring in customers.

• Use networking connections. It won’t take much effort to speak kindly about a small business to others and use networking connections to spread the word about a particular local firm.

Spend a few hours each month sharing positive feedback about a company and getting their name out to others.

• Support the vulner-

able and those in need.

Even while small businesses have been floundering, many are still engaging in community efforts. Restaurants have donated meals to the elderly or less fortunate.

Shuttered fitness centers have repurposed space to provide chaperoned virtual learning centers for students whose parents work and cannot stay home during the school day. Volunteers can work with small businesses to facilitate services such as these, including delivering food or products, checking on those who are self-isolating, monitoring students, or helping to set up connections between businesses and those in need.

• Fill in as a temporary employee. As coronavirus affects employees, they may need to stay home to care for relatives or children, or they may need to self-quarantine after exposure to the virus.

Being without one or two employees can tax a small business. Having volunteers ready to fill in at a moment’s notice can help businesses overcome this obstacle.

Metro Creative Services Donations are the lifeblood of many charitable organizations. Unfortunately, donations also can be the lifeblood of criminal operations designed to scam would-be donors.

The potential for charity scams could be even greater in 2020. Charities accept donations year-round, but the spirit of giving that prevails during the holiday season makes the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas especially popular times to donate to charity. In addition to being on the lookout for the usual scams, the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia warns prospective donors to beware of potential scams involving the COVID-19 virus.

Recognizing the challenges people in their communities have faced as a result of the economic fallout of the pandemic, donors may be more inclined to donate to charities purporting to help laid off workers, small businesses or others adversely affected by the outbreak. That’s admirable, but prospec-

tive donors must recognize that their eagerness to support COVID-related charities may make them vulnerable to criminals looking to exploit their charitable nature.

In recognition of that, the OAGDC offers these tips to men and women who are considering donating to charity in 2020.

• Be wary of recently launched operations.

Operations that were formed in response to the pandemic may be viable, but the OAGDC also warns that many have been formed by scammers looking to exploit the outbreak for their own gain. Be especially wary of crowdfunding campaigns.

• Ask questions. The OAGDC says that any charity, even those formed in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, should be able to provide you with the same information as charities that have been around for years. Prior to donating, ask for the charity’s name, address, telephone number, and mission. In addition, don’t feel skittish about asking how your donation will be used and the percentage of each donation that goes to programs that directly

help the people you’re trying to assist.

• Be vigilant before donating via peer-topeer social networking websites. It’s especially difficult to verify how donations made via texts or websites are ultimately used. While these can be convenient ways to donate, the OAGDC urges donors to be especially vigilant about vetting before donating to charities through these channels.

• Never donate using cash, gift cards or wire transfers. Reputable charities do not ask for donations to be made in this way. The OAGDC advises donors to use credit cards whenever possible.

• The terms “COVID-19” or “coronavirus” do not authenticate a charity. A reputable name or logo does not mean the charity is actually reputable.

Prior to donating, donors can confirm a charity is legitimate by contacting organizations such as Charity Navigator, the BBB Wise Giving Alliance or the National Center for Charitable Statistics.